Pneumonia due to streptococcus, group B

This code identifies an acute inflammatory condition of the lung parenchyma, specifically caused by an infection with Group B Streptococcus (GBS). It manifests as an infection of the lower respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as cough, fever, and difficulty breathing, with GBS confirmed as the causative pathogen.

Assign this code when documentation clearly states a diagnosis of pneumonia and specifies Group B Streptococcus as the etiologic agent. This is particularly relevant in neonates or immunocompromised adults where GBS is a common cause of severe infection. Supporting documentation should include laboratory confirmation of GBS from respiratory cultures or other relevant specimens.

• Ensure the documentation explicitly links the pneumonia to Group B Streptococcus; do not assume GBS as the cause without specific physician statement or lab confirmation.
• Do not use this code for unspecified bacterial pneumonia or pneumonia due to other streptococcal species.
• Consider sequencing with codes for underlying conditions or complications, especially in neonates (e.g., prematurity, sepsis).